The Aviation Ground Handlers Association of Nigeria (AGHAN) has given the airlines seven days to pay back a debt of more than N9 billion. If they don’t, domestic and international flights on the routes of indigenous carriers may be affected starting tomorrow.
According to The Guardian, AGHAN, the group that represents five ground handling companies in Nigeria, accused the operators of the debt, which it said was hurting the operations of its members. These companies provide important services to airlines, such as checking in passengers, handling baggage, marshalling aircraft, coordinating refueling, and ramp services.
Skyway Handling Company of Nigeria (SAHCO) Plc, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO) Plc, Butake Handling Company, Precision Handling Company Limited, and Swissport Handling Company are the ground handling firms.
It is dated April 21, 2026, and is called “Outstanding Indebtedness and Notice of Possible Withdrawal of Services.” It was signed by AGHAN Chairman Olaniyi Adigun and Vice Chairman Ahmed Bashir and sent to the President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).
Our correspondent got the letter over the weekend. It was also sent to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo; the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Chris Najomo; the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku; the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi; and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
AGHAN’s letter said that if the debts weren’t paid off by the deadline, its member companies might have to stop providing ground handling services starting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
The letter said in part, “This situation has continued to put a lot of pressure on our members’ ability to operate, which has made it harder for them to provide safe, efficient, and long-lasting services.” It has also put a lot of financial stress on the management and workers of the companies that were affected.
Even though our members have tried many times to repay these debts in good faith, the responses we’ve had so far haven’t worked out as planned, and most of the payment pledges have not been completed.
“Given the above, and to protect the continued viability of our members’ operations, we would like to respectfully inform you that our members may have to stop providing services if these outstanding debts are not paid within seven days of the date of this letter.”
AGHAN apologized to air travelers for any trouble the situation may cause and said they were hopeful that the ultimatum would lead to quick action from airline operators to settle their debts and avoid a shutdown. They also said they were committed to finding a peaceful solution to the issue.
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